Demon Gate Series Volume 1: Origins, Initiated and Mischief

The Demon Gate #1-3

by Nicholas Bella

It was my lunch break, so why did I have to pullover the jerk speeding down the street in an Aston Martin? If ever there was a time to look the other way, that was the moment, but ignoring crime in progress isn't my thing. My name is Brian Cordero, a cop with the Alandale Police Force and I had no idea just how much my life was going to change the instant my fingers brushed Raphael Ledeo's.

​Now, I've been turned from human to demon, and that is just the beginning of this heap of trouble I've gotten myself into. Turns out, there are eight gates to hell, and one of them--the worst one--is open and a secret demon-hunting organization wants my help to close it. I'm in way over my head and It doesn't help that the demon inside of me lusts for the demon inside of Raphael, a man I'd rather steer way clear of. God, will I be able to resist the temptation and get used to my new demon life? I just don't know.

Warning: This volume contains strong adult content not meant for sensitive eyes. The novelettes in this serial will be filled with dark, twisted, raunchy, steamy and even a little romantic scene between powerful, sexy men that will either offend you or get ya revved up. This series will not be pulling any punches, and it won’t apologize for hurting your feelings, either. You’ll find no fluff and ruffles here. These demons play hard and they fight dirty.

Genres: Fantasy, Dark, Paranormal, M M Romance, Demons, Magic, BDSM

278 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 19, 2020

About the author

About The Maniac Who Wrote These Books

I'm the author of deliciously dark, sexy, and thrilling MM fiction in various genres. I corrupt readers with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on the men who make their blood rise in certain places. I know... I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped, and my characters are rude, sassy, charming, arrogant, and hotter than sinners in hell. They tell me what they want and I follow orders. When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (You should check out my reviews.)
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Reviews

[Ronie Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

dang it, like I needed to add another author to my list

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raphael forever

What an amazing beginning to an incredible series! Demons, love, sexy men and everlasting bonds; yes, please, may I have some more? This is one wild ride you won’t want to miss!

[Yvette · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very nearly gave up on this book shortly after starting - so glad I hung in. It was really good. A true Nicholas Bella story 😊

[Diomaris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel was very very entertaining! I loved the wittiness of the characters! It was interesting to see Bryan come to terms with his new self, although he struggles a bit still but not like before. I like that his mate Raphael is now being forthcoming with him after Adriel interfered. The different types of demons is interesting. The plot is just so interesting, there is still much to learn and uncover and I’m really looking forward to that! ❤️❤️❤️

[Bob Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicholas Bella is indeed a master (pun intended) of the supernatural-fantasy-horror-BDSM-ish romance genre. Yes there most certainly is such a thing and Mr. Bella is not only good at writing, he is quite prolific as evidenced by the number of quality books written.

Demon Gate Series Volume 1 is part of a series of novellas broken down into four novels. If you can step out of your comfort zone and deal with a demon eating someone's soul... and copious amounts of erotica...then you will absolutely enjoy the book. Mr. Bella's books can be quite addictive which is fortunate since there are quite a few of them.

One thing in particular I really like about Mr. Bella's work is that you can tell he loves writing and has fun with it. How awesome is that...doing something you absolutely love and getting paid for it?! So just remember the icky parts are part of the ambiance and enjoy reading this book.


I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review. That said, I also bought my own copy.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not as dark as I thought

This book does have killings and Demons and other dark things (some of which might get my review flagged by Amazon bots of I included them in the review) but it wasn’t as dark as I thought it would be. Maybe I have just read too much dark stuff? Maybe it’s because at the heart of the book people were (mostly) trying to do as much good as they could given their circumstances? I have read books that were much more psychologically dark. I did enjoy this book and will be reading the rest of the series.

[Josh Spencer · Rating 1 out of 5]

DISGUSTING

If you’re into rape and torture then you’ll absolutely love this book. The disclaimer should include this. I read the disclaimer and thought it would be some light BDSM and rough sex. WRONG. If I could give 0 star review I would. I don’t see myself reading anything else by this author. I did not get past Brian agreeing to be Adriels sub. From experience I know that I would probably read more rape scenes after that.

I tried to get past when Raphael raped Brian because they’re “mates”. It was a little justified since Raphael was basically controlled by the Agaroto inside him. It all just went down hill after. Brian is young and having trouble coming to terms with “feeding” and his new attraction to men. Raphael shits all over that and belittles him for it, calling him homophobic. Then enter Adriel and I couldn’t continue. I knew where it was going when he basically forced Brian to be his “submissive”. The fact that Adriel belittled Brian’s denial instead…Brian is straight. Obviously it’s going to take time to adjust to his new attraction on top of everything else.

I really feel that the author should make the disclaimer a little more detailed to include warnings of rape and torture. I also feel authors should do more research into what BDSM is. I haven’t read one book yet that accurately portrays a BDSM scene. It’s all rape and torture and complete control by the Dom. And the Sub just accepts with little complaint and then they fall in love happily ever after. That’s not realistic.

[Wide Eyes, Big Ears! · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m confused because my copy of this volume is called “Chosen”. Officer Brian Cordero feels a frisson when he pulls over a handsome guy speeding in an Aston Martin, which is strange because Brian is firmly, vocally, almost obnoxiously straight. When he meets Raphael again, Brian is horrified to learn Raphael is his chosen mate and that Brian will be hosting the same type of demon that inhabits Raphael. It’s not all bad—Brian gains heightened senses, new powers, and is now basically indestructible—but it does make life complicated. A shadowy demonic group called The Society has pledged to protect humanity and Brian is cajoled into joining. His first assignment? To recruit a demon king and close a portal to hell. If only he knew what he was doing!

I found this amusing but it does come with some trigger warnings including a non-consensual scene and demonic possession. I didn’t warm to Brian for most of the book because he’s overbearingly cocky, chauvinistic, and has internalised homophobia. But … part of the fun is watching his defensive swagger slowly erode. This is not a standard romance, neither Brian nor Raphael are exclusive, and there’s lots of lust but not much love between them—maybe that will emerge as the series progresses. I did enjoy Michael O’Shea’s excellent audio narration and I’m hooked on the crazy, steamy story, I think it’s got potential.

[Lara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting World Building, Has Potential

This book has some solid points in its favor. It’s the first in a series and lays the groundwork for an interesting supernatural world where demons walk among us. The various plot threads (murder mystery, secret society, various love interests) have potential, and the first taste of the different types of demons has my interest piqued, though the book doesn’t end with any conclusions. The next books in the series are already out.

However, there are several things that I don’t love. First, there seems to be an issue with swapping around tenses, and it kept throwing me. Second, Brian needs to come to grips with his new reality and is understandably having trouble doing so. However, while I sympathize, I found his emotional turmoil and bouncing between acceptance and rejection repetitive. While in real life we often have the same internal monologues playing in our minds on repeat, I don’t want to read it. Third, Brian is clearly immature as a person, which is fine, I enjoy questionable characters, but it crept into irritating territory.

Trigger Warning: Be aware that there is non-consensual on page sex.

[Gale MR · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was utterly fascinating to read! Nicholas Bella has a tendency to torture their characters, break them to pieces before rebuilding them back together which is exactly what happened to Brian - the average patrolling cop turned powerful demon. The first few books follow his awakening as a baby demon, his reluctance to accept the changes in his life and the slow sinking in the treacherous waters of the demonic politics, the two-faced games and the almost undetectable slide of his humanity, replaced by his new demon self. I loved the gripping intensity and the dark erotica feel, the brutality of the harsh, unforgiving rules of the demon hierarchy where the lines between prey and predator blur. While in some situations, you feel like a king, in others you are the dirt under the show of someone more powerful than you. And Brian definitely had some though, painful lessons to swallow/ literally/ before accepting his new position. I have no doubt the continuation will be no less a punch in the face kind of read. It's a dark erotica with dub con and other triggers so be aware before taking the stroll, down this particular alley.

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Officer Brian Cordero’s life changed when he opted to chase down a speeding car and give the man a ticket. Raphael Ladeo turned out to be so much more than a speeder. When they touch, Raphael realizes that Brian is his mate and he takes the steps to ensure that mating happens even if Brian is straight and unwilling. After they bond, Brian learns he is no longer human but a powerful demon. He must learn to navigate his new world when he is approached and recruited to help get a gate to hell closed.

You cannot help but feel bad for Brian. Raphael did not tell him everything and Brian winds up in trouble with several other demons. Some of the scenes are so hot I am surprised my ereader did not catch on fire. Brian’s lack of knowledge lands both men in trouble, something Raphael does not appreciate. There is more for Brian to learn and we can hop on as he does. Hopefully Raphael will be more forthcoming with information. This is a compilation of three stories and really gets your blood moving. The rest of the series should be just as exciting.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my usual read, but this series has been recommended many times on MM Bookrec that I just had to give it a go.

I went into it knowing there was non con scene, if this was unknown, I could see why a reader would be put off.

Trigger warnings are a must but I’m very aware of the difficulties an author has when certain words can get them removed or placed in incorrect categories.

This is where reviews are important, read reviews, know your triggers and if rape/non con is a trigger then this is not a book for you.

I’m not strong on my demon lore, but I’m going to assume that the world this author has created is uniquely theirs with the different demons and abilities.

This book ends mid story, as it is written and published as a serial. There are a total of 12 books in this series. I’m torn on if I want to continue with this series, the world and overall story arc is intriguing, the story is well written and the sex is hot but it is not my usual go to genre.

[Crystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think that the writing and the world building were good here, but I just don't know what the point of the story was. It's obviously part of a larger serial, so the story continues after this book, but even in that situation, there should be some logic to the parts of the story. All I got here was a homophobic straight man being nonconned into a bunch of gay relationships. Reading those scenes didn't leave me with the gooey goodness that I usually get from MM and/or noncon scenes. They were really uncomfortable to get through, and I just wanted to get them over with. Not a good feeling when reading romance or erotica. And speaking of, there was ZERO romance going on in this one. Maybe it will come about in later installments, but I don't think I'm inclined to read on and find out.

[FAQs · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't mind a little confusion and/or will they won't they, but even though Brian admits his mate is his "boyfriend" to the "human" world not even 2 sentences later he's back to being "confused" and not sure he's Bi or even cares for his mate.

Also, wasn't a fan of how it stopped to carry into the next book. I kind of get it, as it makes you want to read the next one to find out the continuance, but honestly I'm over it. Also, read a review on book 3 and it looks like the "confusion" on his sexuality or care carries through to that book and to that I say "I'm good". So I'll stop here. I did like where the story was going it just Brian that's going to annoy me.

[Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVED this series. I really shouldn't have, but I did.

Okay, yes, the first time Raphael and Brian sleep together is not okay and definitely more than a little yuck. But, their relationship building is gorgeous and just... Mwah * French kiss *

I loved the whole series, I mean Adriel ..... Could you get a more perfect character?!?!? Ahh I loved every scene with him in.

The characters in general were truly fantastic. It read very smoothly and (in my case) extremely quickly, but the writing wasn't jarring or stilted. A really enjoyable read.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a wild and imaginative experience.
Nicholas Bella never disappoints with scorching sex scenes, off the chart action and supernatural darkness.

Discovering your not only a higher echelon demon but possibly Bi-sexual is one thing; but you have to save the world by recruiting other demons to close the gates of hell, all while feeding on the souls of humans…welcome to Brian Cordero’s world.

This is an amazing series and will keep you on the edge of your seat! Don’t pass it up!

The audible version brings the characters and storylines to life. Top notch narration!

[Ashley -Goldstarreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was different from what I was expecting but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It had a creative plot and fun, sexy characters. Brian, recently reborn as a demon, still has a lot of his humanity left and wants to save the world while avoiding his mate. Raphael is his mate and just wants Brian to be his and accept their relationship. But Brian struggles with that since he always saw himself as straight. Then enter a demon king who forces the issues that Brian is trying so hard to avoid and he no longer can ignore his new existence and everything it entails. Very fun adventure through the demon/human world. And lots of sexy times. The writing was well done.

[Chandra Vice · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF

So this book starts with rape and then carries on to the rapist taunting his victim on how much he enjoyed it. It would be bad enough if these were the bad guys that get killed slowly and horribly, but no. These are the protagonists. Idk what happens after that cuz I don't want anything more to do with this disgusting book.

Honestly, I didn't see that coming after looking over all the good reviews this book got. Now I'm convinced all those reviewers are complete sickos.

[Kassandra Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

WoW

Very interesting world building.

Brian and Raphael are like fire and water and Brian and Adriel are like a volcano and a tsunami. Definitely hot together and definitely sploosh worthy.

Very much hoping I get a chance to read the rest of the books to find out what happens.

Highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rachwithheadinabook · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5* so enjoyable

This is one of those books that you read and immediately, if you can, move on the next in the series. This is what happened here as I have read this book in it’s first printing some time ago, but for some reason not written a review for it. It is a deliciously dark, decadently steamy and erotic demon story that is brilliantly wicked right from the start, I had forgotten how enjoyable this book is, I won’t do that again I promise.

[Sarah Mitcham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life Is No Longer The Same.

Ménage/Poly, Dark, Paranormal, Mystery, Suspense, Urban Fantasy, LGBTQ+, Romantic. Easy to read page-turner with great characters that I found I took a while to take to. A plot with constant twists and turns, a very dark story but one I found enjoyable to read. A cliffhanger ending as the story continues in the next book in the series, these books need to be read in series order for full understanding and maximum enjoyment.

[Christopher Babick · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting novel

This was an interesting novel. It was narrated completely by the main character. There's a gay man, I found it annoying that he repeatedly stated he was straight while being turned on by men. I almost put the book down. It pissed me off. Regardless, the story is very interesting. The writing is well done. And I am going to pick up the second book in the series and Hope our hero calms down.

[Icelica De · Rating 5 out of 5]

A depraved pleasure

I read this book in the span of a day. I spent a lot of that time thinking to myself, "WTF did I just read, and why can't I stop reading this?" Seriously. There was no predictability in this book, which I absolutely LOVED! And the spice? Chef's kiss! Totally recommended!

[A Mom AC · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Nicholas Bella

I expected it. I've read prior books.... but its somehow always a little shocking, the imagery. My, my. Its a dark, disturbing (and kinda fun) place to be. I enjoyed it.

[Florence . · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

RTC but I really enjoyed this one, it gave me everything that I wanted out of it and fulfilled exactly what I wanted it to do for me, so I was pleased with it.

I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion

[Hiddenthoughts · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not my cup of tea. I couldn’t deal with the multiple sex partners while also having a mate (not a poly relationship). The non-con-ish was, eh. Some of the sex scenes were hot but like I said the random sex with others was just off. I only read the first book.

[Colorsun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good start

Well its mostly porn, hot one at that. But I liked the way it was written and I like the characters, whats great is that nothing and none is just white or black. I would love to read Adrians and Raphael POV.

[Meghann Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving it!!

I think I will read on!! I mean, hot as hell demons! Yup, keep it coming! I sure hope Brian learns how to live and soon!!

[Richard Roberts]

Very engaging.

I was captivated by the original story line. Can't wait to get.to the next book grrat.cliffhanger.Great read, a lot of.cursing, so just be prepared.

[J. Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5